Hyderabad: Anganwadi centers will now receive seed kits through the ‘Poshan Vatika’ initiative. These kits include spinach, Amaranthus, fenugreek, tomato, brinjal, and ladies finger. The centers will cultivate these plants to supply nutritious food to those in need.
The Government of India launched ‘Poshan Vatika’ as part of the larger Poshan Abhiyaan, or National Nutrition Mission. This effort focuses on improving nutrition for children, adolescents, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
The main goal of Poshan Vatikas is to offer affordable access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. These Nutri-gardens are being established nationwide to provide a steady supply of locally grown produce directly from Anganwadi centers.
Officials highlight that these gardens enhance diet variety by supplying essential micronutrients. Poshan Vatikas exemplify effective collaboration, offering fresh, local produce to improve nutrition and reduce dependence on outside food sources.
Initially, 4,500 Anganwadi centers in the state will receive these seed kits. Telangana has over 35,000 Anganwadi centers under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) program, which offers various services to women and children. Malnutrition is a significant issue in rural areas, and the government is actively addressing this challenge.
The government partners with NGOs to promote awareness about nutritious food in rural communities. In urban areas like Hyderabad, where gardening space is limited, mobile Anganwadi services will provide nutritious meals twice a week. The state has introduced the ‘Telangana Nutrition Plan’, offering 200 ml of milk, peanuts, millet pattis, and egg biryani twice weekly, setting a unique example in the nation.
